ZAMBOANGA CITY(November 25) — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has suspended all commercial vessel trips from Zamboanga del Norte to the Visayas region after Tropical Depression Verbena made landfall in Surigao del Sur on Monday afternoon, November 24.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the center of TD Verbena made landfall over Bayabas, Surigao del Sur at around 1:30 p.m. Monday. At the time of the bulletin, Verbena had maximum sustained winds of 45 km/h and gusts of up to 55 km/h as it moved westward toward Agusan del Norte.
With the weather disturbance affecting sea conditions across Mindanao and the Visayas, the PCG ordered the temporary suspension of boat trips from Zamboanga del Norte—particularly Dapitan City—bound for Cebu and Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental. The route is serviced by five shipping firms, including a fast craft operating daily between Dapitan and Dumaguete.
“Voyage of vessels will only be allowed to resume once weather and sea conditions improve,” the Coast Guard Station (CGS)–Zamboanga del Norte said in its sea travel advisory.
The PCG and local authorities in the Caraga Region likewise suspended sea voyages and classes in many areas as the weather system brought heavy rains and strong winds.
Small vessels, motorboats, and fishing boats were strongly advised to stay in port. Vessels already at sea were told to coordinate with the nearest Coast Guard unit, take shelter, and exercise maximum caution.
“The safety of our seafarers and passengers remains our top priority. We urge all vessel operators to strictly follow safety protocols and monitor weather updates,” the CGS–Zamboanga del Norte said.
Fisherfolk and coastal communities were also urged not to venture out to sea or conduct any water-related activities while Verbena continues to affect large portions of Mindanao and the Visayas.
PAGASA said the tropical depression will continue to bring rains and gusty conditions as it moves across the northern sections of Mindanao and toward the Visayas.
